CIMMYT is a cutting edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow's problems today. It is entrusted with fostering improved quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops through applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South, through building strong partnerships. This combination enhances the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers, while working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries.

For more information, visit: www.cimmyt.org

Position Overview

CIMMYT is looking for a dynamic and results-oriented Donor Relations and Fundraising Specialist to work in the Resource Mobilization Team of CIMMYT’s Donor and Fundraising Support Unit (DFS). The role will be responsible for driving fundraising from Spanish-speaking donors, and from donors interested in funding CIMMYT’s work in Latin America.

The location of this position will be Texcoco, México and it reports to the Resource Mobilization Manager.

Specific duties:

•       Partners with designated CIMMYT Program Directors, Program Managers, and senior scientists to co-lead fundraising strategies and opportunity development, contributing directly to successful fundraising outcomes.

•       Leads and coordinates fundraising efforts with Latin America Programs by participating in regular Program fundraising meetings, advising on fundraising best practice, and providing editorial and strategic input to funding proposals and concept notes.

•       Leads and coordinates fundraising efforts with assigned donors, through the development and implementation of donor engagement plans.

•       Participates in the design, implementation, and monitoring of annual fundraising plans that advance the ambitions and income targets of designated Programs.

•       Contributes to the development and delivery of fundraising services and tools (e.g., funding opportunity identification, donor intelligence inputs, proposal templates) to designated Programs, including tailored pursuit of bilateral, multilateral, corporate, foundation, and CGIAR pooled funding options.

•       Identifies, cultivates, and advances new donor relationships and funding opportunities aligned with programmatic priorities and institutional diversification goals.

•       Actively contributes to DFS annual planning activities, implementation, and review within their areas of responsibility, ensuring alignment with institutional fundraising priorities and programmatic needs.

•       Collaborates closely with Fundraising, Grants Management, Sub-Grants Management, Project Management, Communications, and Finance colleagues to ensure coordinated and high-quality donor engagement and proposal development.

•       Assists in the preparation of analytical and narrative materials required for Resource Mobilization Management Committee (RMMC) meetings and other internal governance or decision-making forums.

•       Works with Communications colleagues to develop donor-facing products and visibility materials (e.g., briefs, presentations, visit packs) that strengthen donor engagement and institutional positioning.

•       Delivers professional stewardship to current and lapsed donors with the objective of strengthening relationships, securing follow-on funding, and identifying expansion opportunities.

•       Maintains high-quality, accurate, and timely records within DFS data systems and CRM platforms, ensuring pipeline accuracy, probability integrity, and adherence to DFS data standards and reporting protocols.

•       Works in close coordination with the DFS Data & Analytics function to maintain pipeline discipline, contribute to forecasting accuracy, and monitor portfolio balance and concentration risk within assigned thematic or geographic areas.

•       Performs related duties as assigned, consistent with the evolving strategic priorities of the DFS function and institutional fundraising objectives.

•       Documented experience in donor intelligence and fundraising; demonstrated capacity in both supporting and leading on successful fundraising opportunities.

•       Experience in Project Management.

•       Experience in a multi-project work environment for more than 5 years, part of that in an international context.

•       Ability to build strong relationships with CIMMYT counterparts at all levels (e.g., Communications Unit, Programs) focusing on successful outcomes, and advancing CIMMYT’s fundraising ambitions.

•       Demonstrates resourcefulness, initiative, and ability to meet tight deadlines.

•       Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude.

•       Actively works towards continuing personal learning and development; responds positively to feedback; implements improvement tactics.

•       Promotes a knowledge-sharing and learning culture in DFS by demonstrating leadership in their domain and seeking continuous improvement in their activities.

•       Excellent written and oral communication skills in Spanish and English

•       Desire and ability to work collaboratively, respectfully, and inclusively in a diverse, multicultural, multidisciplinary work environment.

•       The successful candidate must exhibit the following competencies: Critical Thinking, Creative Thinking, Communication, Teamwork, Client Orientation, Problem Solving and Decision Making, Proactive mindset, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution.

CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package and support for continuous professional development. In addition to the provisions of the Mexican Labor Law our package of benefits includes year-end bonus (40 days), vacation premium (56%), life and medical insurance, supermarket coupons, savings fund, social Mexican benefits (IMSS, SAR / Infonavit), 15 public holidays, recreative areas (Gymand swimming pool). At the staff cost: cafeteria, comedor and laundry services.

Candidates must apply online.

Applications must include a CV in English.

Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Internal applications could be considered in line with internal eligibility guidance, please contact HR for more information.

This position will remain open until filled.

CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Women are encouraged to apply.